1 day Halong Bay Tour

The main reason I wanted to set foot in Hanoi is that it is close to Halong Bay with just 3.5 hours of travel by road. Modern road infrastructure and convenient transport has made the bay easier to reach but there is no tourist train line connecting both places. Halong Bay is one of the UNESCO World Heritage sites which features thousands of limestone karsts and isles in various sizes and shapes.

Before I came to Hanoi, I researched on a lot of websites to compare prices for a 1 day Halong Bay Tour. I've read that there are a lot of travel agents in Ha Noi, too which are cheaper than the website prices. I planned to buy one upon my arrival to the city.

True enough, the minute I set foot in Hoan Kiem District, where my hotel was located, travel agencies can be seen almost at every corner of the street. It was exciting to see a lot of them and so I immediately bought one at the nearest shop. It was only afterwards that I realized I bought a quite an expensive one (30 USD). I chided myself for being an impulsive buyer even though I researched well beforehand. Anyways, since I already bought the ticket I just hoped for the best. 

The next day, I was picked up at my hotel at exactly 7:45am. The guide took me to a waiting mini bus that can seat 25 persons. Seconds later, a Korean guy sat next to me. We became friends within the 3 hour drive to Halong Bay. As the trip was long, there was a quick stop break for 20 minutes. We were able to stretch our legs, get some snacks and go to the toilet.

Arrival at Halong Bay was at 12nn. We were asked to board a boat and which cruised through the emerald waters between the limestone outcrops while enjoying seafood lunch. Food was not great but ok. Most guests finished their meal in a few minutes. All of us then went up to the second floor of the boat to view the amazing sight and take a lot of photos.

More islets on the horizon.

Part of the itinerary was to have kayaking or boating. Some guests opted to kayak around the islands. I paid for the smaller boat and not the kayaking. Kayaking takes a lot of effort and I think it would have robbed me the time to stare and enjoy the surroundings. I was happy I chose the boat. There were 2 women with me together with a boat driver.

Taken while we are nearing the cave.

While inside the cove.

After this, we cruised again for about 20 minutes and arrived at Thien Cung Cave. The name means cave of the Heavenly Palace and is known for its stalagmites and stalactites. The cave was opened to the public in 1998. It was fun to walk and explore it. Our guide was very enthusiastic to show us the stalactites and stalagmites that looked like something from the imagination.

#Relationship Goals :)

Upon exiting the cave, we found a view point offering this.

We arrived at Halong Harbor at around 1730H and finally in Hanoi at 2000H. I finished the day with a barbecue ribs dinner with a new found friend whom I met during the cruise.

If given the chance, I'd love to come back to Halong Bay and this time try the 2 days 1 night cruise that the agents offered. Hopefully in the future. Thank you for reading and 'til my next blog!